Chris Pichon, Chairman of local enterprise agency Wenta, attended a Royal reception at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday 14th July, following his recent honour of obtaining The Queen’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Enterprise Promotion.

Since starting with Wenta 18 years ago, Chris has transformed the company into one of the country’s leading enterprise agencies, which today employs over 55 staff with an annual turnover of £3m. In 2014, Wenta assisted over 1200 people to start their own business across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, provided business skills training to over 4500 individuals and supported over 500 businesses through its business centres. Wenta is also a founder member of the Charter for Women in Business.

The Queen’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Enterprise Promotion, introduced in 2004, is an award given to just one person each year in the UK. It recognises individuals who have played an outstanding role in promoting the growth of business enterprise as well as developing entrepreneurial skills and attitudes in others.

Before making his way to the Palace, Chris attended a formal presentation ceremony at The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills where he received a Grant of Appointment, along with a crystal chalice. This prestigious award was presented to him by Business Secretary of State, Sajiid Javid.

Following the presentation ceremony, Chris set forth to Buckingham Palace where he mingled with Royalty and shook hands with Her Majesty, The Queen. Chris said,

The entire day was an unforgettable, once in a lifetime experience and I was bursting with pride from start to finish. Winning this award was fantastic as it recognises not just the work I have done through the years, but the hard work and dedication of the whole Wenta team who are always here to help local businesses start, grow and thrive.

The staff at Wenta are extremely proud of Chris for such an outstanding achievement, as well as their accomplishments as a team. It is hoped that this wonderful news will inspire others to support the local community, develop new businesses and, consequently, make a positive difference.